The Government of Rwanda officially declared the Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak over after 42 days with no new cases, following the double negative test results of the last patient on November 7, 2024.
The outbreak, confirmed on September 27, 2024, was Rwanda’s first experience with the deadly virus.
It resulted in 66 confirmed cases and 15 fatalities, with nearly 80% of infections affecting health workers who contracted the virus while providing care.
To combat the spread, Rwandan health authorities, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and partners, launched a comprehensive response.
Measures included rigorous disease surveillance, testing, infection prevention and control, contact tracing, clinical care, and public awareness campaigns.
These efforts yielded rapid results, cutting cases by half within two weeks of detection and achieving a 90% decline shortly thereafter.
Dr. Brian Chirombo, WHO Representative in Rwanda, praised the country’s response: “The robust response by Rwanda shows how committed leadership, concerted efforts by partners, and a strong health system are crucial in addressing public health emergencies, saving and protecting lives, and safeguarding communities.”
Key to the success was the deployment of WHO experts, regional first responders, and strong national mobilization. These resources bolstered Rwanda’s capacity to manage and ultimately curb the outbreak.
Though the outbreak has ended, WHO continues to support Rwanda’s Ministry of Health in maintaining vigilance for potential flare-ups and in providing holistic care for survivors to address any lingering health effects.
Marburg Virus Disease, caused by a pathogen in the same family as the Ebola virus, is highly virulent with fatality rates ranging from 24% to 88%. This outbreak recorded a relatively lower fatality rate of 23%. The virus is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces.
